Discover the different approaches and styles of yoga.
Laughter Yoga, created by Dr. Madan Kataria in 1995, combines voluntary laughter exercises with yogic breathing. The body cannot distinguish between simulated and spontaneous laughter: physiological benefits (endorphins, cortisol reduction, immune boost) are identical.
Yoga Nidra, or "yogic sleep," is a guided deep relaxation technique practiced lying down. It induces a state between waking and sleep allowing physical and mental regeneration equivalent to several hours of rest.
Ashtanga Yoga is a dynamic and demanding style codified by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois. It follows fixed series of postures linked in a precise order, synchronized with Ujjayi breathing.
Sivananda Yoga is a traditional holistic approach based on five principles: exercise, breathing, relaxation, diet, and positive thinking/meditation. Developed by Swami Vishnudevananda, it offers a complete, accessible practice based on 12 basic postures.
AcroYoga combines yoga, acrobatics and Thai massage into a unique relational practice. Practiced in pairs or trios, it develops trust, body communication and balance through supported acrobatic figures.
Iyengar Yoga, founded by B.K.S. Iyengar, is distinguished by its precision in postural alignment and use of props (blocks, straps, blankets). This therapeutic method is particularly suited for people with chronic pain and seniors.
Hatha Yoga is the most widespread traditional form of yoga in the West. It combines postures (asanas), breathing exercises (pranayama), and meditation to harmonize body and mind.
Restorative Yoga is a gentle, passive practice using many props (bolsters, blankets, blocks) to hold postures effortlessly for 5-20 minutes. It activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting deep body and mind healing.
Kriya Yoga is an advanced meditative technique transmitted by Lahiri Mahasaya and popularized by Paramahansa Yogananda in 'Autobiography of a Yogi'. Combining pranayama, mudras and meditation, it aims to accelerate spiritual evolution through mastery of vital energy (prana).
Bikram Yoga (or Hot Yoga) is a practice of 26 postures and 2 breathing exercises performed in a room heated to 40°C with 40% humidity. Heat promotes flexibility, detoxification through sweating, and intense cardiovascular work.
Kundalini Yoga, taught in the West by Yogi Bhajan, is the "yoga of awareness." It combines postures, powerful breathwork, mantras, and meditations to awaken the dormant Kundalini energy at the base of the spine.
Prenatal yoga adapts postures, breathing, and relaxation to pregnant women's specific needs. It prepares body and mind for childbirth while relieving pregnancy discomforts.
Yin Yoga is a slow, deep yoga where postures are held for 3-5 minutes. It targets connective tissues (fascia, ligaments, tendons) and promotes deep flexibility, meditation, and letting go.
Power Yoga is an athletic and intense yoga inspired by Ashtanga, developed for practitioners seeking a complete physical workout. It builds strength, endurance, and flexibility.
Vinyasa Yoga is a fluid and dynamic yoga where postures flow creatively to the rhythm of breath. Each class is unique, offering variety and creativity in practice.